Hooksett arborist recognized for his ability to work in the cold

HOOKSETT - A Hooksett man has been named the winner of the Cintas and Carhartt Cold Crew competition, an annual contest recognizing American and Canadian cold-weather workers.

James Tatem, an Arborist foreman with Bartlett Tree Experts, was named the 2013 Cintas and Carhartt Cold Crew grand prize winner.

The competition is recognizes "individuals in the U.S. and Canada who withstand the toughest winter working conditions" and highlights "the hardworking spirit of men and women across the country."

Those who signed up were encouraged to share their stories, and also to "explain why Carhartt workwear is essential to their jobs."

"Winter is my favorite time of year," Tatem wrote in his entry essay. "Not for sledding, ice skating, or hot chocolate by the fireplace, but for working outside in all the elements that winter throws at me."

As grand prize winner, he will receive an all-expense paid trip for two to the 2013 Country Music Awards Music Festival.

"Last year's contest generated amazing stories from men and women who brave extremely brutal working conditions during the winter months, and we are looking forward to another opportunity to acknowledge them," said National Director of Garment Strategy for Cintas Brad Heizman in a 2012 press release announcing the competition.